No. Spiritual reasons are not the only reasons you should visit Makkah. Certainly, Makkah, being the home of Kaaba — one of the holiest places on earth — and the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), holds a very special place in the hearts of Muslims. However, there are many cultural, family-friendly, historical, and tourist attractions in Makkah which make this city a must-visit place for families and international visitors alike. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a history admirer, or a devoted pilgrim, Makkah with its historical, modern, and religious landmarks has a story to share with you.
To spark your interest or assist your planning to visit one of the largest cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, this article highlights some of the best places to visit in Makkah.
Most Famous Religious and Holy Places to Visit in Makkah
Makkah’s religious importance is embodied in different holy places that are prevalent here with their distinguished history and charm.
Masjid al-Haram — The Mosque that Surrounds Kaaba
Masjid al-Haram symbolizes the unity of Muslim Ummah which can be witnessed at its peak during the Hajj. The mosque, right in its heart, houses Kaaba — the holiest site in Islam.
In Islamic tradition, the Kaaba is the qibla (direction of prayers). It’s the cuboid-shaped sacred structure that pilgrims from all over the world circumambulate 7 times during Tawaf.
Besides the religious purposes, the Grand Mosque can be visited for its architectural magnificence and spaciousness. There is no entry fee and it is open 24/7.
The Black Stone
Also known as Hajar al-Aswad, the Black Stone can be found embedded in the Kaaba in its eastern corner. This special stone from paradise, as it is said, was first given to Prophet Adam (PBUH).
This Islamic relic is believed to hold the power to absolve sins by God’s Will. Following Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the pilgrims and their families kiss or touch the Black Stone during Tawaf.
Maqam Ibrahim
The station of Abraham (PBUH), near the Kaaba, is famous as it holds the footprint of Prophet Ibrahim (also spelled Abraham). It connects every Muslim to the story of Ibrahim (PBUH) who, along with his son, constructed Kaaba — the House of God.
During the Hajj or Umrah, the pilgrims pray behind this station.
Safa and Marwa
These two small hills are now accessible from within the Masjid al-Haram in a well-maintained environment. The significance of Safa and Marwa is linked to the ritual of Sa’i that is performed by Muslims during the Hajj and Umrah.
Sa’i is performed to honor the memory of Hajar’s act of running 7 times between Safa and Marwa in a desperate search of water to quench her baby’s, Ismail (PBUH), thirst, resulting in the miracle of Zamzam spring, also known as the Zamzam Well.
Zamzam Well
Zamzam is a special well revered by all Muslims for its miraculous origin. It can be found within Masjid al-Haram and its water is absolutely free for all the pilgrims. The visitors cannot only drink its blessed water on-site but can also take it with them when they return to their homes.
The Best Tourist Places to Visit in Mecca or Makkah
Following are the recreational hallmarks in Makkah that you must visit to elevate your experience as a tourist.
Abraj Al Bait Towers
If you love visiting the world’s tallest buildings, Abraj Al Bait Towers is definitely one of the best places to see in Makkah. One of the 7 towering structures is the Clock Tower. Its marvelous modern architecture makes it one of the many well-known Mecca tourist places.
Offering the panoramic views of Mecca, its significance is also marked by its proximity to the Grand Mosque and Kaaba. It houses fancy hotels and restaurants and is a must-visit spot for shopping and astronomy lovers.
Abraj Al Bait Towers remains open round the clock with zero entry charges.
Makkah Museum
At Makkah Museum, you can indulge in some of the best things to do in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. This museum, which also goes by the name of Makkah Regional Museum, is the best spot for curious minds without the distinction of local or foreign. Anyone interested in Makkah’s history and culture is welcome to the Makkah Museum.
Different exhibits at the museum present archaeological findings, historical relics, Islamic heritage, and artifacts. They help families and visitors to understand the evolution of Makkah from pre-Islamic times to the present times. From exploring the life of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) to understanding different rituals performed during Hajj and Umrah, from the rare Quranic manuscripts and copies to the historical maps, Makkah Museum offers a great interactive and educational experience to those who are interested in Islam’s vast historical and cultural heritage and in Makkah’s importance as a historical and cultural hub.
Concerning timing and entry charges of the museum, variations should be expected.
Makkah Mall
This mall, in the heart of Makkah, offers a modern shopping experience to its visitors. Whether you seek shopping from international or local brands, family-friendly entertainment, or dining options, this mall offers everything you need. This precisely makes Makkah Mall one of the best places to visit in Makkah during your visit to Saudi Arabia.
Entry is free. However, if you wish to visit the mall from Saturday to Wednesday, the timing is 9:00 am – 11 pm, while from Thursday to Friday, the timing changes to 9:00 am – 12 am.
Al Diyafa Mall
What makes Al Diyafa Mall special is its spacious and pleasant environment. It’s a good destination for those looking for convenient dining and shopping with a wide range of options. If you’re planning for a family outing, the food court at Al Diyafa Mall can satisfy you with its diverse international as well as local cuisines.
Make sure to visit the mall from Sunday to Thursday between 9:00 am to 11 pm, and on Friday and Saturday, from 9:00 am to 12 am without worrying about any entry fees.
Ziayarat Places in Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Ziayarat places in Makkah hold a significant importance for religious devotees across the world. Following are the most famous Ziyarat places located in Makkah.
Jannat al-Mu’alla Cemetery
If you wish to visit Makkah’s oldest cemetery, visit Jannat al-Mu’alla. This famous cemetery is also identified as the Garden of Paradise as well as Al-Hajun.
What makes it one of the special ziarat places in Makkah and a place of respect is that it is the resting place of many of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) relatives, including his beloved first wife, Khadija, and his uncle, Abu Talib.
Though the general admission is free, the cemetery remains open from 8:00 am to 10 pm.
Masjid Aisha (Taneem Mosque)
Named after one of the wives of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Masjid Aisha is also called Majid al-Taneem. It is an important mosque where pilgrims can prepare for Ummrah and enter Ihram before visiting Masjid al-Haram. It can be accessed throughout the day.
Masjid al-Jinn
Masjid al-Jinn is comparatively smaller than other mosques in Makkah but holds a great spiritual and historical significance. Located on the outskirts of the city, this mosque is believed to be the place where an assembly of jinns — the supernatural beings — listened to Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) recitation of the Holy Quran. Like Masjid Aisha, it remains open throughout the day.
Historical Places to See or Visit in Makkah
Makkah’s history has a widespread appeal to Muslims and historians after the Arab Revolution. Following are the most famous historical places that you must visit during your stay in Makkah.
Jabal al-Noor
Also referred to as the Mountain of Light, Jabal al-Noor is a site of extreme importance in the history of Islam. It was here that the Prophet of Islam (PBUH) received his first revelation of the Quran.
Jabal al-Noor is open to visitors 24/7 for free. Other than spirituality, the panoramic views of the city can also be enjoyed on this spot.
Hira Cave
Jabal al-Noor houses the Cave of Hira or the Hira Cave. Inside this cave, God Almighty revealed upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) for the first time the verses of the Quran through the angel Gabriel.
This blessed cave offers a great place for spiritual reflection and the pilgrims visiting the cave offer prayers and make supplications. The visitors can visit it 24 hours a day.
Jabal Thawr (Thawr Mountain)
In Islamic history, this place finds its importance in the events that took place here during the migration of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) from Makkah to Medina. The Prophet took refuge in a cave, called Ghar Thawr, with his companion Abu Bakr, and was protected by God from his pursuers.
The serene ambiance of Ghar Thawr makes it an ideal place for pilgrims to offer prayers and contemplate the historical events that happened there.
The Kiswa Factory
The Kiswa Factory provides the unique opportunity to observe the artisans involved in the complex process of creating the Kiswa (covering) of Kaaba. This opportunity to witness firsthand the Islamic craftsmanship and gain insights into the history of Kiswa makes it one of the best places to see in Makkah for everyone, especially tourists.
The factory can be visited on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 8:00 am to 11 am with no entry fee to pay at all.
Important and Top Places to Visit in Makkah During and After Umrah and Hajj
Following are the top places to visit in Makkah during or after your Umrah and Hajj:
Mount Arafat (Jabal al-Rahmah)
Mount Arafat is also referred to as the Mount of Mercy (Jabal al-Rahmah), symbolizing forgiveness in Islam. Ascending and standing on Mount Arafat on the 9th Dhul-Hijjah (the last Islamic month) is an essential ritual of the Hajj. The pilgrims supplicate and seek forgiveness from God Almighty for their sins.
This sacred place is free to visit and is open round the clock.
Mina
This place is of central importance in both Islamic history and the Hajj pilgrimage. This is the site where Muslims, during the Hajj, perform the ritual known as the Stoning of the Devil. During the Hajj days, the place gets heavily crowded but can be generally accessed throughout the year without paying any entry charges.
Muzdalifah
Muzdalifah, in between Mina and Arafat, is part of the whole Hajj experience. The pilgrims rest and pray here. It is the same place where the pilgrims gather stones to perform the Stoning ritual in Mina during the Hajj.
Muzdalifah, like Mina, is open for visitors throughout the year and the general admission costs nothing.
Conclusion
In essence, the city of Makkah (also spelled Mecca) presents a beautiful blend of ancient traditions, historical landmarks, and modern attractions to its visitors. Whether you feel inspired by spiritual fulfillment, cultural richness, shopping at lively local markets and malls, or visiting some great family-friendly spots, Makkah welcomes each traveler warmly. So pack your bags because spiritual reasons are not the only reasons to explore one of the largest cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
FAQs
What are the best places to see and visit in Makkah for non-muslims and foreigners?
The best places in Makkah that non-Muslims and foreigners can visit (access restrictions may apply for some areas based on regulations) are: Makkah Museum, Clock Tower Museum, King Abdulaziz Complex for Holy Kaaba, Kiswah Abraj Al-Bait Towers, Al Diyafa Mall, Al Baik Restaurant (local cuisine experience), Makkah Gate, Al Haramain High-Speed Railway Station, Mina Valley (Tent City, viewable from afar), Jabal Al Nour (Hira Cave, exterior views), Makkah Royal Clock Tower, Taif (nearby mountainous region with cooler weather and scenic views)
What is the most viewed place to visit in Makkah or Mecca?
The most viewed place to visit in Makkah is the Masjid al-Haram, also known as the Grand Mosque. It is spiritual and the holiest site in Islam. Every year millions of Muslims from all over the world visit the Masjid al-Haram to perform the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
The Masjid al-Haram is home to the Kaaba, a cube-shaped structure that is the holiest place in Islam. The Masjid al-Haram also contains several other important religious and historical places such as Zamzam well and Black Stone, etc.
What are some fun Places to explore in Makkah, Saudia Arabia?
These are some fun places other than religious and spiritual ones: Al Hijaz Mall, Al Diyafa Mall, Clock Tower Museum, Al Shifa Park, Jabal Al Noor, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque, Thowr Mountain, King Abdulaziz Complex for Holy Kaaba Kiswah, where you can do fun with your friends, family and kids.